Data visualization is a Graphical Representation of information and data by using visual elements like charts, graphs and maps. It is very useful in analysing information and trends because:
- Pictures with colours and different sizes make it easier to decipher patterns
- Facilitate interpretation of large amount of data
- Allows us to tell the story; the take away from the analysis
Data Visualization is a balance between form and function. Your presentation can’t just look good and say nothing or say a lot but not get noticed. It is not merely a graph with some data labels. Data Visualization is an art and a science that needs to be learned.
History of Data Visualisation
The earliest use of data visualization, which dates back before 17th century, was mainly in the form of maps displaying roadways, terrains and cities. Over time demand for more accurate maps increased thus increasing the demand for visualization.
Michael Florent Van Langren, a Flemish astronomer, is believed to be the one who created first visualization of statistical data. He provided the distance between Toledo and Rome along with other astronomers with their measurement. Thus opening the doors to the world of statistical data visualization.
Why data visualization is important?
Humans tend to figure out trends and patterns easily than some numbers in a spreadsheet. We quickly identify different shapes, colours, objects from one another. Human culture is visual.
Data Visualization plays a similar role in helping us understand GBs of data using a graph. We can quickly see the trends in the data and make certain decisions.
As we adopt Big Data, it becomes imperative for everyone to make use of Data Visualization to understand billions and trillions of rows of data. The data and the visuals need to work together, and it’s an art, combining great analysis with great storytelling.
